The effectiveness of diabetes education in rural clinical practice

Abstract

Objective: Type 2 Diabetes affects approximately 10% of the population in the United States. Diabetes is associated with acute and long-term complications are more severe. Studies are providing a correlation between better self-care actions and a reduction of undesired diabetes outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implementation of a diabetes self-management education (DSME) program on glycemic control that was expected to improve staff knowledge and diabetes outcomes.

Methods: This study conducted a quality improvement design. Providers and nursing staff in three primary care clinics were recruited. Diabetes Knowledge Test (DKT) and HbA1c were measured pre and post intervention.

Results: Data from 15 staff participants were analyzed. The mean score for the pre-test was 81% while the mean score for the post-test was 87%. A paired t-test revealed t = 1.533, df = 3.998 and p = .160. The HbA1c percentage mean over 6 months decreased by 0.02% and subsequently in 3 months by 0.17%. The Friedman rank sum test was used to compare the differences, χ²(2) = 14.79, p < .001. Post-hoc analysis identified a statistical significance in the HbA1c from implementation to post implementation.

Conclusions: There was an increase in the percent score in the provider and nursing staff knowledge after implementation of the DSME program. A decrease in percent change of the HbA1c was identified over the three- month implementation period. This study demonstrated that the implementation of a DSME program may contribute to improved glycemic control.